New Radar-Evading Tech
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-K) has introduced a new stealth tech called Anālakṣhya. This tech, a type of metamaterial surface cloaking system (MSCS), seeks to improve India’s defense by helping tanks and fighter jets avoid enemy radar. This announcement shows progress in India’s partnership between schools and the defense business, highlighting effective outcomes from military tech innovation.
Importance in Defense
The Anālakṣhya MSCS will be crucial for the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) plans for advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA). This homegrown stealth fighter project will benefit greatly from IIT-K’s new tech, which aims to dodge air defense radars.
Strong Testing and Development
Between 2019 and 2024, the Anālakṣhya system went through thorough testing in both labs and field conditions. Its flexibility and effectiveness in different environments prove it reliable for use in operations. The Indian military is now working to acquire this system, showing its key role in boosting national security.
Local Sourcing of Materials
A significant 90% of the materials used in the Anālakṣhya MSCS come from India. This success lessens reliance on foreign supplies and supports the government’s Make in India effort. “The system absorbs radar waves very well over a wide range, offering strong protection against radar-guided missiles and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR),” IIT-K stated in their announcement.
Production and Use
IIT-K has licensed the Anālakṣhya MSCS tech to Meta Tattva Systems Pvt Ltd for mass production. This step is vital for ensuring timely manufacturing and use in important defense tasks.
How Stealth Tech Works
Stealth systems use two main methods to avoid radar detection:
Surface Design
Combat systems with sharp, angled designs disrupt radar waves, making them much harder to detect.
Absorptive Surface Material
Rather than reflecting radar signals like traditional metals, the Anālakṣhya MSCS employs a textile-based, broad-spectrum microwave absorber. This helps absorb a large amount of SAR waves, which lowers the radar’s visibility.
“By using these methods, the system boosts stealth capabilities while being adjustable for different combat platforms,” the announcement added.
Benefits for National Defense
The Anālakṣhya system offers various advantages:
- Better Stealth: High radar wave absorption.
- Operational Flexibility: Works well in many settings.
- Strategic Advantage: Important for the AMCA and other local combat technologies.
- Cost-Effective: High local sourcing lowers overall expenses.
A Move Towards Self-Sufficiency
India’s commitment to self-sufficient defense technologies gets a major boost with the Anālakṣhya development. The teamwork between IIT-K, DRDO, and industry players shows a strong system that encourages innovation.
Future Uses
The MSCS technology, due to its flexibility, could find application in the following areas:
- Civil Aviation: Lower radar visibility for passenger and cargo planes.
- Maritime Security: Better stealth for naval ships.
- Surveillance Tools: Improved stealth for drones and reconnaissance gear.
References
- The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur has released an official statement.
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has released updates.
- Meta Tattva Systems Pvt. Ltd has released production reports.
- Leading defense publications provide expert analyses.
